We all know that teaching is such an intensive job, no matter what grade or subject you teach. From writing meaningful plans and delivering amazing lessons to organizing holiday parties and meeting all of the needs of your students, you do a ton each and every single day. I wanted to put together a list of simple teacher self-care activities for you that are both affordable and simple to do.
Most of these teacher self-care ideas involve things you may already have or can easily get your hands on. They also don’t require a ton of effort on your end because that would defeat the purpose! Take the time to fill your cup over the holiday break and take care of yourself.
Do you have unread books you’ve been meaning to read? Pick one, dust it off, and get to reading. Try carving time each day over the break to sit in your favorite spot with a cozy blanket and drink to read. If you don’t have a book handy, grab one from the local library, bookstore, or Amazon.
While I don’t have an awesome list of book suggestions because I don’t read a lot in this season of my life, there are tons of book lists and book clubs that share reviews. Here are a few:
Take the time to bake your favorite holiday treat over your break. I know we may bake for our neighbors, family, or parties, but think of something you love to make and eat and get to baking! Here is my favorite holiday treat recipe if you want to try something new!
Bring on the holiday spirit by creating your favorite holiday music playlist! If you have Amazon Prime, you also have Amazon’s music streaming service. If you don’t have a streaming service, you can find most of the songs you like on YouTube and save the videos as a Playlist.
Not into holiday tunes? You can also make a playlist of relaxing music or songs that make you happy. Filling the home with music can make things like chores, cooking, and organizing much more enjoyable. If you want to combine holiday and relaxing music, Marie Claire has a “Chill Holiday Music Playlist” HERE.
Hit the sidewalk and go on a long, relaxing walk. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even take the time to find a walking trail near you for a more peaceful nature vibe. You might bring a friend or family member with you, or just grab your headphones and listen to your favorite podcast or songs. Taking time to disconnect and move your body does wonders for the soul.
Sometimes teachers, especially teachers that are also mothers, struggle to make time to socialize with friends and family outside of our kids’ obligations. Call up a friend you haven’t seen in a while (or your bestie!) and ask them to a coffee date. Face-to-face time with people we love is uplifting!
Finally, my last teacher self-care idea is to just do something that makes you feel good. Have you been wanting to watch a show? Find time to binge-watch
Taking care of yourself, especially over your holiday break, needs to be a priority so that you can continue to serve the people you love well. I hope these teacher self-care ideas inspired you to find something that will improve your mental health, help you relax, and allow you to enjoy your break. You deserve it.
I’m a K-1 teacher who is passionate about making lessons your students love and that are easy to implement for teachers. Helping teachers like you navigate their way through their literacy block brings me great joy. I am a lifelong learner who loves staying on top of current literacy learning and practices. Here, you’ll find the tools you need to move your K-2 students forward!
